Studio Ghibli has added a new release to its official online store, themed around motifs from one of its all-time classic films, My Neighbor Totoro. These new items, featuring traditional Japanese patterns, can also serve as large omamori, or traditional Japanese amulets.
These card holders are currently available for 1,980 yen each from the online retail site Donguri Sora, the official Studio Ghibli merchandise store. Although they are not yet available in physical stores, it is possible that they will be in some overseas stores in the future. These new merchandise items, available in red and blue, are intended to hold important ID cards, such as those for travel or employment. They have an adjustable strap, making them ideal for use as a lanyard or baggage accessory.
At first glance, fans of the film may struggle to see the connection to My Neighbor Totoro. However, a closer look reveals some charming images. The card holders come in two styles: red with a leaf pattern and blue with a sunflower pattern. On closer inspection, the blue card holder contains the Makkoro Kurosuke, small “soot sprites” that appear early in the film. These tiny creatures appear in another Ghibli film, Spirited Away, and now have a new home with this latest product. The red card holder includes the titular Totoro in the pattern, as well as a few acorns scattered throughout.
These card holders are made of 100% cotton and are built to withstand heavy use. This makes sense given their similarity to traditional amulets found in Shinto and Buddhist temples in Japan. Omamori are protective or luck-drawing amulets that usually feature traditional patterns and contain a prayer. While Studio Ghibli’s new item focuses on practicality, it is much larger than most traditional good luck amulets, allowing fans to put whatever they want inside, providing plenty of versatility.
Fans who appreciate the item’s understated simplicity will give it a purpose, regardless of its intended use. My Neighbor Totoro has stood the test of time as an idyllic film about a gentle nature spirit, so this item feels especially appropriate. As Totoro and his fellow creatures revolve around the existence of a giant tree with Shinto connotations, these card holders may also be enjoyed as part of the film’s overarching themes. The film is currently available for streaming on Max in the United States.
